The grille of the 2015 Ford F-150. Ford says the overwhelming grille is needed to give hard-working truck engines enough cooling air and to look 'tough.'

Written by

James R. Healey
USA TODAY

Unlike cars, trucks actually use the grille as a way to get cooling air to the radiator. Cars usually take in their air from openings under the bumper and the grille area is largely or completely cosmetic.

But trucks are rated to tow trailers and carry heavy loads. That makes the engine run hotter and it becomes more important to regulate the under-hood temperature as well as move plenty of cooling air through the radiator. ...